Drake says it’s the “Summer of Sixteen” but those of us in Denver and NFL fans around the world know it’s actually the “Summer of Von.” So that got me to thinking, who are the best outside linebackers in Broncos history?
We live in a what-have-you-done-for-me-lately world and what Von has done for Broncos fans lately is personally deliver them, not only a trip to Super Bowl 50 but the victory!
So with that said, here are the five best outside linebackers in Denver Broncos history:
5. DeMarcus Ware
Career in Denver: 2014-2015 (2 seasons)
Career Accolades: 9-time Pro Bowler; 4-time First-Team All-Pro; 1-time Super Bowl champion
Is two seasons enough time to put you inside the top five of all inside linebackers in Denver Broncos history? Well, if you have the type of impact Ware has had in those two seasons, then absolutely.
Ware’s signing in Denver marked a league-defining shift in the Broncos mentality, from an offense-first mentality to defense, defense and more defense.
It was Ware who helped take Miller’s career to the next level, it was Ware who recovered the game-winning fumble against the Bengals in Week 16 and it was Ware who helped terrorize Tom Brady and Cam Newton on route to an NFL Championship.
Without Ware, the Broncos likely don’t have a third Lombardi Trophy, and that’s reason enough to put him on this list.
4. John Mobley
Career in Denver: 1996-2003 (8 seasons)
Career Accolades: 1-time First-Team All-Pro; 2-time Super Bowl champion
When I decided to write about inside linebackers one name came to mind and that name is John Mobley. Mobley was a part of the Super Bowl teams in 1998 and 1999, had 10.5 career sacks with the Broncos and 5 interceptions.
But above all else, what Mobley will be remembered for is deflecting a Brett Farve pass on 4th and 6 to seal the victory in Super Bowl XXXII.
Mobley was rarely one of the best outside linebackers in the NFL when he played, but he was a staple of the Broncos defense through the late 90s and early 00s. This list wouldn’t feel right without him on it.
3. Tom Jackson
Career in Denver: 1973-1986 (14 seasons)
Career Accolades: 3-time Pro Bolwer; 1-time First-Team All-Pro
The third best outside linebacker in Broncos history goes to Tom Jackson.
By the way, I hope I’m not he only one who has a hard time saying the name Tom Jackson and not doing my best Chris Berman impression.
While Jackson may now be more famous for his off-field work on Sunday NFL Countdown, there’s no denying his impact on the Denver Broncos franchise. He was one of the first great defenders in the organization’s history, and a core member of the original Orange Crush defense.
2. Simon Fletcher
Career in Denver: 1985-1995 (11 seasons)
Career Accolades: None
Number two goes to Simon Fletcher. A Bronco from 1985-1995, he recorded 808 total tackles, 10 fumble recoveries, 2 interceptions and 97.5 sacks (103.5 including the playoffs), most in franchise history.
Fletcher was finally added to the Broncos Ring of Fame earlier in the month, and it was more than deserved. Until the day Von Miller surpasses his franchise-record 97.5 sacks, he’s the greatest pass rusher in Denver Broncos history.
Flethcer is a now running Gridiron Grille and BBQ up in Fort Morgan, if you’re in the area stop in and say hello to an all time great in Broncos history!
1. Von Miller
Career in Denver: 2011-2015 (5 seasons)
Career Accolades: 4-time Pro Bolwer; 2-time First-Team All-Pro; 1-time Super Bowl champion; 1-time Super Bowl MVP
Last and certainly not least is… Drum roll please? Von Miller!! As if you did not know already by the cover photo.
Miller was John Elway‘s first pick as the Broncos general manager — way to knock that ball out of the park Mr. Elway — and he hasn’t disappointed. He was the MVP of Super Bowl 50, a four-time Pro Bowler, four-time All Pro (two first team and two second team), the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011 and Butkus Award winner in 2012.
As I started with, this summer has been nothing but a spotlight shining on Von and deservedly so; he also has a giant contract coming his way that he has earned and will continue to earn. Not only as the Broncos best outside linebacker of all time, but as one of the top-three defensive players in the league today.
That’s a completely different list but now it’s your turn! Tell me what you agree with if anything and tell me what you disagree with? Who would of made your list?
Enjoy the summer of Von.